04042018 LCG

Volume 11 • Edition 7

April 4, 2018

Serving rural Adams, Morgan, and Weld Counties

Aims Community College's Aviation Program Position for Takeoff as it Turns 50

From Aims Communications GREELEY, CO – April 5, 2018 – As Aims Community College’s Aviation Program turns 50-years-old, it is focused on providing leading-edge technology in flight operations and air traffic control for students. Aims Community College’s Board of Trustees yesterday approved moving flight operations to NoCo Regional Airport, while offering classroom instruction in Weld County. Flight operations for the past 50 years have been primarily conducted at the Greeley-Weld County Airport with more than a decade of helicopter instruction at NoCo Regional Airport.

“On behalf of the Aims Community College Board of Trustees, we want to extend our sincerest gratitude to the Greeley-Weld County Airport for hosting our aviation program over the past 50 years,” said Dr. Ray Peterson, Aims Board of Trustees Chairman. “Greeley-Weld County Airport has been a great partner, and this decision for a change in venue was made with the student at the heart of it. As we look to the next 50 years in Aims Aviation, NoCo Regional Airport better positions Aims Community College to grow and modernize our aviation educational experience for the student with cutting-edge technology at a commercial airport.”

NoCo Regional Airport is located in Aims’ service area near highway I25 in Loveland. This airport offers the student a commercial aviation experience as well as a remote air traffic control tower. Seventy percent of Aims aviation students reside outside Aims’ taxing district. Classroom instruction will continue to be held in the taxing district of Weld County.

“NoCo Regional Airport maximizes visibility, access and convenience for Aims students, particularly our veterans who make up one-third of the aviation student population,” said Mark Hout, Aims Board of Trustees Treasurer. “Although this decision wasn’t easy, it ultimately came down to what is best for students.”

A recent study by Boeing measured the long-term demand for pilots and technicians, and found that 617,000 new airline pilots would be needed, worldwide, over the next 20 years. Over the past 50 years, there have been nearly 900 student experiences at the Greeley-Weld County Airport.

“The global demand for pilots and the aviation student market, including the veteran population, is more than double by relocating to the NoCo Regional Airport,” said Lyle Achziger, Aims Board of Trustees Secretary. “As a veteran, I’m looking forward to seeing increased veteran attendance at Aims.”

In December 2017, Aims received five newly leased 2017 Piper (PA-28-181) Archer III TX Aircraft Trainers, replacing the single engine Cessna 172s.

“I’m very excited for the next 50 years in Aims AviaContinued on Page 3...

Weld County Citizens: Remember 1A & 1B

by Bob Grand In the recent past Weld County citizens voted on Ballot Questions 1A and 1B. They appeared pretty straight forward. 1A asked to eliminate the County Council and the voters said no. 1B question appeared pretty straight forward, placing the County officials under the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission. Of course, as in life, the devil is in the detail. If you read the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission Rules of Procedure under section 7, Paragraph G you will read: “A complaint shall be dismissed by the IEC on one or more of the following grounds:: Under Paragraph 7, paragraph G, sub Section 3 you will read: “The complaint fails to allege that the conduct complained of occurred within the twelve months of the filing of the complaint.”

In plain English that says if the complaint involves an event that occurred greater than 12 months old from the date of filing of the complaint the Independent Ethics Commission cannot, by statute investigate it. Did anybody bother to disclose that to the voters? It begs the question, did any of our Weld County Commissioners possibly have an issue that they did not want to have the Independent Ethics Commission or anybody else investigate, issues perhaps of disclosure or conflicts of interest? In either case I think an explanation is due the public. By approving 1B investigations are cut off.

As usual your thoughts and comments are always appreciated: Publisher@lostcreekguide.com

Annual Meeting of the Stockholders of Roggen Farmer’s Elevator to Be Held at Weld Central High School on April 18th Notice is hereby given that the 63rd annual meeting of the stockholders of Roggen Farmers’ Elevator (a Colorado Cooperative Association) will be held at Weld Central High School in Keenesburg, CO on April 18th, 2018 at 6:00pm for the following purposes: 1) To elect 2 members to the Board of Directors. 2) To receive the financial report of the Association. 3) To discuss and transact such other business that may come before the Association at the time. 4) Report of operations by Management. By order of the Board of Directors.

Statement from Chairman Mike Freeman on Behalf of the Greeley-Weld County Airport Board Regarding Aims Community College’s Aviation Program Announcement

We are extremely disappointed to hear the news that Aims Community College has decided to pull its aviation program from Weld County and move it to Larimer County. Weld County residents have been the backbone of this college from day one as it is their tax dollars that provide the majority of the funding for the school. To now have the college take the aviation program to another county is an insult to the very people who allowed the college to foster the program in the first place.

Publishers Comment: I must applaud the AIMS Community College Board for it’s decision to relocate the air operations portion of the Aims Aeronautical program to a commercial airport facility to enhance the attractiveness of the program for its current and potential new students. Greeley Weld Airport Board Chairman, Mike Freeman, also a Weld County Commissioner was not happy with the decision as expressed in the above press release.

Discussions have been ongoing for a year and a half with two feasibility studies.

AIMS focused on what was best for the students and the College and that was the basis for their decision. All that will be relocated to the proposed facility will be the air operations, the classroom and simulator will remain at the AIMS Main Campus. Making the decision is up to the Board of the College, it is their job. In my mind, the AIMS Board had the best interests of the students as the decision driver, not the economic interests of a government entity. That, to me, is being responsive to what they should be focused on. AIMS is a very valuable member of the Weld County community overall and, quite frankly, a significant contributor to the Greater Greeley area. Let the AIMS Board do its job and not try and second guess it with emotional rather than factual considerations.

As usual, your thoughts and comments are appreciated: Publisher@lostcreekguide. com

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE:

Page 2: Way of the World Page 2: A Visist with Mike Finn, a Republican Candidate Page 3: April Fools’ Tradition Popularized Page 5: County Health Department Offers

Free Health Screening Page 8: March is not a Great Month for Barb Kirkmeyer Page 10: Bipartisan Support for a Strong CO Budget Page 11: Spring Weather Brings the Reminder to Be Bear Aware Page 12: SouthEast Weld Conservation

District Annual Meeting Page 13: Aims CC Events in April 2018 Page 14: Success for Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s

Colorado Archery in the School Program

Page 2

Way of the World

Lost Creek Guide

by Bob Grand The recent elections in Weld County had a couple messages. The biggest is that our voter turn out is not great. America prides itself in having free and open elections and then many do not vote. This has a couple of consequences. For those who went to Caucus you realize that those who show up, control. So some have figured out, in both parties, that they, a very small portion of the electorate, have a disproportionate say on who gets on the ballot. This year voters, who did vote, turned many incumbents out of office, Mayors and Council members. The message was: listen to the people.

Participate and get involved.

The story in Washington continues to play and play, same old same old. The Omnibus bill was a disgrace and both parties were neck deep in it. The politicians continue to think that they can get away with getting very little accomplished. The sad fact is they seem to be right. Running for office, politicians, of both parties, say one thing and then do not follow up. They must be held accountable. Where are term limits?

In the Colorado, running for Governor is becoming a major occupation. One would hope that with so many candidates running we would be able to get major issues up for meaningful discussion. You can only hope.

We keep hearing the DOJ Inspector General report is coming soon. This like a soap opera. Let us get the facts out. Some people will not be happy. That is not important, we, as either Independents, Democrats or Republicans, should want to be aware of what happened. Again, we must all be concerned if government officials did not act properly. It is not a question of whether you like Trump or not, it is a question of law.

Any American, regardless of party, should not be afraid that anyone in government can ignore the law to persecute them. This is not a dictatorship.

We have started looking into the Weld County budgeting process. One has to ask what is the purpose of County government? Is it just to build infrastructure or should there be an assessment of the needs of our citizens? Mental health related issues account for almost 50% of our Weld County Jail population. As our population grows do we just ignore it and just plan to build another $40 million jail and incur the staffing costs require to run it? Our Weld County Commissioners need to rethink the County budgeting process to be more of one that addresses community needs and not just maintain the status quo. As our population grows and people realize what they are receiving and, more importantly, what they are not, in County services they may decide a change is needed. It may be worth looking at a proactive approach to problems. Realizing you may have to spend some money today that will reap significant reductions in long term costs. A novel idea, think about the future and what you can do today to positively effect future outcomes.

As always your thoughts and comments are appreciated: Publisher@lostcreekguide.com

April 4, 2018

Aims Community College Celebrated National Agriculture Day with the Community at the Fort Lupton Campus

GREELEY, CO – March 26, 2018 – Aims Community College celebrated National Agriculture Day at its Fort Lupton Campus, located at 260 College Avenue with an Open House for the community on Tuesday, March 20 and an event for the Future Farmers of America (FFA) on Friday, March 23.

At the Open House, guests saw baby chicks hatch, rode on the Precision Agriculture Mobile Educational Technology Unit (a John Deere gator equipped with auto-steer and GPS technologies), learned about dairy farming from June the Cow (provided by the Western Dairy Association), an animatronic full-sized fiberglass Holstein, and interacted with the West Greeley Conservation District riparian trailer.

On Friday, March 23, Aims’ Fort Lupton Campus hosted approximately 350 students from across the state at the Future Farmers of America (FFA) Career Development event. Students participated in activities that covered job skills in communications, mechanics and more.

“It was wonderful to share what Aims has to offer at our Fort Lupton Campus with the community and the Future Farmers of America, while celebrating National Agriculture Day,” said Aims CEO and President Dr. Leah L. Bornstein. “I hope this event encourages the community to consider coming to Aims for the technology, support and quality education they’ll find here. Participating in the Ag program at Aims is a tremendous value, allowing a smooth transfer to Colorado State University.”

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the job outlook for agricultural and food scientists will increase by 7 percent through 2026. Students can receive the high-tech training needed for careers like these and more at Aims in Fort Lupton.

A Visit with Mike Finn, Candidate for the Republican Party

The Lost Creek Guide, Llc Bob Grand - Publisher 303-732-4080 publisher@lostcreekguide.com

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Weld Country Commissioner District 2 Seat by Bob Grand Mike Finn is campaigning to win the Republican nomination for the Weld County Commissioner’s District 2 seat, currently held by Julie Cozad, who has withdrawn from the race. He is running against Scott James, currently Mayor of Johnstown.

Mike and his wife, Judy, moved to Greeley in 2002. Mike originated from Massachusetts while Judy’s family has been in Greeley a long time. Her great grandparents owned a farm out on 18th street. Mike retired after 20 years active duty with the military serving in the Air Force as well as the Navy. He served on the Greeley Planning Commission from 2007 to 2009 and has been a Greeley Council person from 2009 thru 2018 for Ward 4.

When asked why he wanted to run for Commissioner he said our County Commissioners needed to show leadership. It needs to be about the people and not the personalities. He recognizes there are strong personalities on the BOCC but they need to work together for the people. He believes that Commissioner Julie Cozad was a hardworking individual, showed up and had integrity. Mike is a strong fiscal conservative and believes in property rights. He observed that the Martin Marietta Materials issue is just a mess. He is constitutionalist who believes the constitution should be interpreted as written. He supports the oil and gas and agriculture sector of our economy.

Asked about the County Council and the Board of County Commissioners he believes there has to be some kind of oversight. He believes there is too much focus on Greeley and not enough focus on the rest of the County. He believes a very small group of people control the Republican party in Weld County but the party needs to reach out to the new people that are moving into the County. We have to change the culture of being Greeley centric. Meeting with the new people and working together to solve the many issues we face is important and he believes he can help foster that thought process. His military background as well as his work experience has prepared him to be a positive voice on the Board of Commissioners. He feels he can make a difference because he tells it like it is.

Asked about the signature gathering process to get on the ballot Mike said he and his wife and friends worked hard on gathering the signatures. It was a lot tougher than he originally thought it would be.

District 2 area for Weld County Commissioner is about 1/3rd in Greeley and 2/3rds outside of Greeley.

It will interesting to watch this race evolve, as Scott James is a formidable candidate in an area the has a lot of strong feelings about the current County Commissioners and their seemingly indifference and insensitivity to the citizens of District 2.

April 4, 2018

Lost Creek Guide

In Much Reverence for our Soldiers and Loved Ones: 10th Annual Memorial Day Program Heart of the Plains Cemetery Monday, May 28, 2018

Memorial Day, a day that seems to symbolize so many things: family, fun, togetherness, the unofficial start of summer, but most of all, honor, debt and gratitude to those soldiers who have fought to give us the carefree life that we often take for granted. The following poem reflects the reverence we should hold towards our soldiers and the importance of their service:

Thoughtfully, prayerfully bear ye the dead,

Pillow it softly---the volunteer’s head.

Silently, tenderly, mournfully home,

Where should the brave volunteer come,

But to his native hills,

Where the bright gushing rills,

Freedom’s sweet music fills,

And her soft dew distills?

Peacefully, prayerfully lay our brave friend

Close to the home he fought to defend.

Silently, tearfully welcome the brave.

Glory encircles the patriot’s grave.

Here let affection swell,

Here let the marble tell

How the brave hero fell,

Loving his country well.

Silently, tenderly, mournfully home,

Welcome the brave volunteers as they come.

Wrttien by J. W. Barker from Holiday selections for readings and recitations, compiled by Sara Sigourney Rice, 1920 Please join us honoring our local living and fallen soldiers at the 10th Annual Memorial Day Program at Heart of the Plains Cemetery in South Roggen on Monday, May 28, 2018. Coffee and doughnuts will be served at 8:30 a.m., at which time the living and deceased veterans will be registered for the roll call. The Heart of the Plains Cemetery Committee has decided to start a fresh roll call list this year, so any names that have been registered in the past will have to be re-registered this year.

The program will begin at 9:00 a.m. with patriotic music from the Keenesburg Community Choir and a fly over by Dan and Jason Schellenberg of Air Dusters, Inc. Father Carlos Wilson Bello of Sacred Heart Church will welcome everyone and give the invocation. Richard Huwa will serve as Master of Ceremonies and Deacon John Wehrman of St. William Church in Fort Lupton will offer the tribute and the roll call of veterans as well as the roll call of all buried at the cemetery. American Legion Post #180 of Keenesburg will raise the American Flag; provide a rifle volley, the playing of Taps and the concluding Howitzer salute.

Heart of the Plains Cemetery is located at 38044 County Road 16, Roggen, CO. Bring your lawn chair and join in celebrating the true meaning of Memorial Day!

April Fools’ Tradition Popularized

From History.com On April 1 in 1700, English pranksters begin popularizing the annual tradition of April Fools’ Day by playing practical jokes on each other.

Although the day, also called All Fools’ Day, has been celebrated for several centuries by different cultures, its exact origins remain a mystery.

Some historians speculate that April Fools’ Day dates back to 1582, when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar, as called for by the Council of Trent in 1563. People who were slow to get the news or failed to recognize that the start of the new year had moved to January 1 and continued to celebrate it during the last week of March through April 1 became the butt of jokes and hoaxes.

These pranks included having paper fish placed on their backs and being referred to as poisson d’avril (April fish), said to symbolize a young, “easily hooked” fish and a gullible person.

April Fools’ Day spread throughout Britain during the 18th century. In Scotland, the tradition became a two-day event, starting with “hunting the gowk,” in which people were sent on phony errands (gowk is a word for cuckoo bird, a symbol for fool) and followed by Tailie Day, which involved pranks played on people’s derrieres, such as pinning fake tails or “kick me” signs on them.

Classifieds Work Contact us at Editor@lostcreekguide.com 303-732-4080

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Aims Community College's Aviation Program Position for Takeoff as it Turns 50

Continued from Page 1... tion,” said Aims Board of Trustees member Carol Ruckel. “Aims is focused on providing aviation students the technical skills and modern proficiencies needed to be competitive in the technologically advanced aviation industry.”

Additionally, Aims Community College is modernizing the Air Traffic Control (ATC) Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) Lab with a state-of-the-art Adacel Tower Simulator.

“The decision for flight operations at NoCo Regional Airport, new aircraft and a new tower simulator are coming at a time when pilot and air traffic controller jobs are in high demand,” said Aims Board of Trustees member Gene O’Hara. “This is the perfect time for anyone who wants to become a pilot or air traffic controller to take advantage of the opportunities that are before them. Aims is striving to become the first choice and recognized leader in aviation education for Colorado as we build a stronger community.”

The RAND Corporation conducted a similar study to Boeing’s in 2015 and found the major airlines would need between 4,000 and 5,000 pilots a year after 2020, and regional airlines would need upwards of 7,000 new pilots a year by 2021. The U.S. Dept of Transportation, in 2016, published a 10-year strategy/plan whereby they state over 1,400 controllers would need to be hired per year for the next five years.

Recently, the Denver Post reported Great Lakes Airlines suspended many flight operations due to pilot shortage.

“I’m so proud Aims has come up with solutions for its aviation program that match its vision for the next 50 years, while keeping the student at the forefront of the decision-making process,” said Aims CEO and President Dr. Leah L. Bornstein. “Aims Aviation has been well-known in the industry since 1968, and these significant modernization efforts, along with quality instruction, are such a great value for students.”

Apply today at www.aims.edu to learn from experienced aviators. Eric Himler, Aims director of aviation leads a talented group of faculty and staff. Himler has over 25 years of experience flying in general, military and commercial aviation. Himler is a veteran who served for 20 years as a Naval Aviator. His flight experience includes: Marine KC-130 Pilot, Blue Angel C-130 Demonstration Pilot and First Officer for Alaska Airlines. He has numerous FAA certifications and ratings including an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate and a B-737 type rating.

Support Your Local Small Businesses!

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Lost Creek Guide

Calling Area Entrepreneurs

Fort Morgan, CO. 03/30/18. Are you looking to start your own business? Or, are you looking to expand your business? Morgan Community College is now accepting applications for its Small Business Entrepreneurship Program. Thanks to the El Pomar Foundation, the MCC Foundation, and FMS Bank, Morgan Community College will provide access to quality business training in Northeastern Colorado, and will be selecting ten students based on applications and a letter of recommendation.

Students will enroll in two college level courses upon selection into the program. The course will meet one evening a week beginning August 20 through DecemPictured are the four prize winners for best business plans ber 7, 2018; specific and presentation for the 2016 Small Business Entrepreneur- day and time will be ship Program. Pictured at Zazzy Café are (L to R) Kelly Frye, determined by the Roseanne Evans, Timothy Brasby, Douglas L’Heureux, and students and the instructor. Tuition, FMS Bank President, John Sneed. fees, and software will be completely funded through the Small Business Entrepreneurship Program for those selected as participants. Students must provide their own laptop for course work.

The software provided will enable participants to develop a business plan, project costs, and calculate their return on investment. These sections will be graded and are part of the student’s final presentation. Instruction also includes group meetings, presentations from local business leaders, seminars, technology usage, as well as one-onone mentoring.

A non-college panel of judges will select the top three best business plans at the end of the semester according to defined criteria. Prizes will be awarded as follows: First Prize $10,000.00 Second Prize $ 8,000.00 Third Prize $ 7,000.00 All students who successfully complete the 6-credit program will receive an Entrepreneurship Certificate from Morgan Community College.

Applications are available online at www.MorganCC.edu/businessplan and must be submitted by July 13, 2018. Students will be notified by August 10 and classes will begin August 20. Along with the online application, a resume and a letter of recommendation from a business owner (non-family) is required. Documents may be uploaded online or mailed directly to: Andrea L’Heureux Morgan Community College 920 Barlow Road, Fort Morgan, CO 80701 “This program helps to promote local businesses and increases the economic impact in the area,” shared John Sneed, FMS Bank President. FMS Bank’s sponsorship ensures future offerings of this curriculum.

An awards banquet will be held in December to announce the winners and award the top three students.

For more information about the program, go to MorganCC.edu/businessplan or contact MCC’s Dean of Workforce Development, Andrea L’Heureux, at (970) 542-3166.

American Legion Auxiliary Girls State

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 19 of Fort Morgan is looking for girls between the 11th and 12th grades interested in going to Girls State. Girls State will be held June 10-16, 2018 at the University of Northern Colorado, in Greeley, CO. The American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program educates over 20,000 young women throughout the United States each summer, with a hands-on approach training in the practical processes of self-government and citizen practiced in a democratic society. Girls State is designed to educate our leaders of tomorrow in the duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of citizenship. This session in government is non-political.

At girls State, the citizens study local, county and state government processes. This is done by setting up their own miniature city, county and state governments and by administering them according to the laws of the state. After arriving at Girls State, the girls are divided into two political parties. These parties do not reflect the two major political parties in today’s system of government. The members of each party develop a platform and elect individuals to organize and hold leadership positions.

The parties allow the citizens to gain knowledge and understanding of how a twoparty system operates.

Girls State citizens participate in these mock political parties; elections are held to fill city, county and state positions. Activities include: legislative sessions, campaigning, party rallies, debates, voting and special instructions in parliamentary procedure. The process affords Girls State participants an opportunity to live together as self-governing citizens at city, county and state levels. It teaches the importance about the privileges, rights and responsibilities of American citizenship.

This learning experience better familiarizes these young women with their duties as United States citizens, fostering of pride in country, an opportunity to realize their own potential and the role they can play in making a strong America. It encourages them to participate in the democratic process as they progress to adulthood.

Girls interested in going need to submit a hand-written letter of no more than 500 words stating, “Why They Want To Go To Girls State,” along with a type-written list of all their school and community activities to Violetta Anderson, Girls State Chairman, P. O. Box 53, Wiggins, CO 80654. Phone number 970-483-6150.

April 4, 2018

Weld County Extension Master Gardener: Pruning Roses

By Traci Deblieck

In addition to enhancing the natural esthetic beauty of rose bush displays, pruning is critical to the health and survival of your roses.

Pruning prevents disease, improves vigor, and enhances blooming. The main goals of pruning are to remove dead, damaged, and diseased branches. This allows for better air circulation and light penetration, which prevents fungal diseases such as black spot and powdery mildew. It also prevents wind breakage and scarring. There are several different ways to prune depending on the type of rose and the season you are pruning in.

The most common hesitation in pruning is identifying where the cuts should be made. The “Bud Eye” is the area on the stem where branching occurs. In summer, it is right above a set of mature leaves. On dormant or older canes they are located just above the crescent shaped leaf scars along the stem. Pruning cuts should always be made above the “Bud Eye”. Make a slanted 30-45 degree cut, one quarter of an inch above the outward facing live “Bud Eye” so that the new growth will be directed away from the center of the plant. Remove any dead or diseased canes first and them focus on shape. Make clean cuts with a sharpened blade and periodically disinfect pruners between cuts if you are removing dead branches.

In spring, it is helpful to time your pruning just as new growth starts. The shorter you prune the less blooms you will have but they will be larger. Do not prune if there is still any chance of a hard frost. In summer, deadheading spent blooms will encourage new blooms. If you wait until fall to prune, be sure to prune late enough in the season so that new growth is not stimulated and damaged by an early freeze.

Depending on the type of rose there may be special considerations regarding pruning. Most roses can be maintained by leaving 6 to 8 strong health canes. Shrub roses have more branches and you can leave more on those types of roses. Once blooming roses bloom on the previous year’s growth. These roses should only be pruned after blooming or they will not bloom in the current year. Large blooming roses need sturdier canes and need to be pruned farther back to support the weight of the larger bloom or they cane will bend.

April 4, 2018

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Lost Creek Guide

Colorado Ag Day

In March, the state came together to celebrate Colorado Agriculture Day, which is often said to be the most popular day “under the golden dome.” It’s when the Governor, legislators, farmers, ranchers, chefs, and many more celebrate the abundance of agriculture at the State Capitol. With an estimated 900 people in attendance, the event was highlighted by a cook-off competition that featured the teaming up of local chefs, lawmakers and ag representatives, creating dishes with Colorado-grown foods.

The event – hosted by the organizations that make up the Colorado Agriculture Council – also took time to recognize the ag industry's incredible generosity to those in need. According to Bob O’Connor, executive director of the Weld Food Bank and chair of the Feeding Colorado Board, Colorado’s ag industry is continually one of its biggest supporters. In 2016, the ag industry’s product and monetary contributions to Colorado’s five Feeding America food banks totaled up to $16,085,678.

Each year, Colorado Agriculture Day takes place during National Ag Week, and showcases all that Colorado’s industry does for our state, highlighting its efforts in feeding Colorado’s 5 million-plus people, its stewardship of our resources, and its $40 billion economic impact – a top two or three contributor to the state's economy each year. “This is the day we look forward to the most during the entire 120-day session,” Gov. Hickenlooper said in his remarks on Wednesday, referring to the popularity of Agriculture Day at the Capitol and the cook-off competition among state lawmakers.

“It’s an enjoyable event, but it’s also a time that we take a moment and truly reflect on how good we really have it here in Colorado, thanks to our ag industry.”

Clerk and Recorder Koppes: Michael Finn Makes the Ballot

Greeley, April 3, 2018 – Clerk and Recorder Koppes announced today that Republican Michael Finn has successfully petitioned onto the ballot in Commissioner District 2.

In addition, Republican Scott James has made the ballot through the Weld GOP Assembly on March 24th.

Here are Finn's numbers: Turned in: 2,177; Rejected: 491; Accepted: 1,686 Candidates who planned to petition onto the primary ballot were allowed to begin collecting signatures on Jan. 16th and required to turn them in by March 20. In all, one candidate turned in a petition in Weld County.

The more common way to get on the ballot for the primary is to go through the assembly process, which began with neighborhood caucuses on March 6th.

Support Your Local Small Businesses!

The Hoyt Home Circle Update

The Hoyt Home Circle club met at !!:15 a.m. on Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at the Country Steak-Out in Fort Morgan for the Group 1 birthday luncheon. The hostesses were Group 2 members Stacey Allen, Martha Allen, Melanie Lingo-Conter, Becky Hewitt, Rosie Hirchert, honorary member Norma Lingo, Peggy Manino, Marilyn Musgrave, Charlene Shaver and Donna Stahley. Group 1 members Ruth Anderson, honorary member Carol Becker, Pam Bland, Barb Chilcote, Dorothy Kaminski, Ginger Lingo, Deb Mobley, Elsie Nail, Mamie Romero, Dora Lee Shay and honorary member Alice Tucker were honored. Our special guest was Landen Musgrave. All attendees enjoyed a delicious lunch each had ordered from the wide menu or selected from the bountiful buffet. Visiting and laughter were mixed with quiet times as everyone delicately devoured their meals. A yummy birthday cake was provided by Marilyn.

A short meeting was held following the luncheon. President Marilyn called the meeting to order, welcomed everyone and thanked the hostesses. She led the Pledge of Allegiance and Melanie led the club creed. Marilyn read a touching and thoughtprovoking piece from Catholic Quotes called “Zapped by a Brick” by an unknown author. Roll call was for the Group 1 members to show the delightful gifts each had received from their secret sisters and Group 2 members.

Marilyn told us that 2 shelves have been purchased for our use at the Hoyt Community Center. We will be sorting through our items to determine what we will keep or donate at a later time. Rollers will be put under the ticket tumbler for easier use.

The work on the stage is almost complete and we will make a decision about the stage curtains at the next meeting.

The spring luncheon scheduled for May 9th was discussed. Members are still thinking about entertainment options.

Charlene said she had spoken with someone at the Fort Morgan Humane Society regarding what items they need donated. They are always in need of cat litter, dish soap, laundry soap, bleach, used blankets and comforters and money donations.

The next meeting will be at 1:00 p.m. at the Hoyt Community Center on April 11th.

The officers will be the hostesses. Roll call will be maiden names of members and/or their moms. The program will be a silent auction.

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Lost Creek Guide

Colorado House Approves Budget That Cuts Spending for Private Prisons Despite Projected Rise in Inmate Population

From The Colorado Independent

By John Herrick Lawmakers are rolling the dice in an effort to drive down the state’s prison population.

The $28.9 billion state budget approved Thursday includes no money to lease private prison beds despite a warning from the Department of Corrections that the plan could lead to prison overcrowding.

Instead, lawmakers cut spending to lease private prison beds by about $4.4 million and put up an additional $4 million to pay for more beds in community corrections, also known as halfway houses. This is part of a broader effort to force the Department of Corrections to transition more inmates out of prison.

“I’m very concerned with mass incarceration and the proliferation of our private prisons,” Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver, told The Colorado Independent. “We’ve been able to come together and put a rein on the Department of Corrections’ budget.”

The budget sidelines a DOC request for funds to lease about 250 beds in the Huerfano County Correctional Facility, a private prison that closed in 2010. Corrections officials said the $12 million was needed to house an expected rise in the prison population next year.

The state budget also includes no money requested to build an outdoor recreation facility and make other renovations needed to reopen Colorado State Penitentiary II, now called the Centennial South Correctional Facility. The Cañon City prison was built in 2010 to hold inmates in solitary confinement but shuttered in 2012. The savings here add up to about $19 million.

Democratic lawmakers say the state needs to do more to release inmates from prison, and the budget cuts should force the Department of Corrections, which oversees the state’s prison population, to transition more inmates into halfway houses or into parole.

For Republicans, this is about reining in the department’s budget, which has swelled nearly 20 percent since 2011 while the state prison population has dropped 12 percent over the same time period.

“We’re trying to force a more holistic approach to this,” Rep. Cole Wist, R-Centennial, told The Colorado Independent. “We think it’s gonna result in a better budget.

And that’s what we’re supposed to do in our budget process — be efficient with taxpayer dollars.”

Wist said Colorado may be among the first states in the country to set a corrections budget based on targets for transitional releases — an idea presented to lawmakers by a Joint Budget Committee staffer earlier this month.

But the Hickenlooper administration has pushed back against this plan, saying the Department of Corrections has little control over whether inmates are successfully admitted to these transitional programs.

“We’re full in our purchased beds,” Henry Sobanet, the governor’s budget director, told lawmakers earlier this month. “So it’s using more community corrections beds and we don’t control that system.”

The Department of Corrections also opposes this plan, claiming it could lead to state and county prison overcrowding; the prison population is expected to approach 20,000 next year, in part due to a rise in drug arrests. DOC did not respond to a request for comment on Thursday.

To help ease this concern, the budget includes an additional $4 million for more beds in community corrections and an additional $295,000 for intensive residential treatment beds, which specifically help treat mental illness and drug addiction.

The hope is that this money will prevent people from re-offending and ending up back in the prison system, Herod said.

The backup plan, lawmakers say, is to invite the Department of Corrections to the state Capitol to make a supplemental budget request. This plan, however, could be controversial; lawmakers used the supplemental budget request process this year as an opportunity to draw attention to what they said has been a misuse of taxpayer funds by the department.

The budget still needs to be approved by the Senate next week and signed by Gov. John Hickenlooper, who has line-item veto power.

Pet and Livestock Owners Cautioned About Rabies

The Colorado Department of Agriculture and Tri-County Health Department have confirmed that an alpaca in Douglas County has died due to a rabies infection. Pet owners are urged to check records to ensure rabies vaccinations are up-to-date. Livestock can also be infected with rabies and owners are encouraged to discuss the risk of rabies exposure with their local veterinarian.

April 4, 2018

Commissioner Brown Announces Bruce Sinning as Director of Plant Industry Division

Duane Sinning, currently CDA’s Assistant Director of the Plant Industry Division, will be taking the helm of the section as its Division Director. The vacancy was created when Mitch Yergert announced his retirement from CDA after nearly 31 years of service. Sinning assumes his new role on April 1, 2018.

“Duane has served this agency and Colorado’s agricultural community well over the years; his leadership ability has been apparent with our staff. Duane’s career has been focused on furthering plant and seed development and I’m confident that his dedication to agriculture will help his successfully transition into his new role,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Don Brown.

April 4, 2018

Lost Creek Guide

Page 7

Littwin’s Official Unofficial #CO2018 Governor’s Race Rankings, Week One

From The Colorado Independent

By Mike Littwin At last, the day you’ve been waiting for. We bring you the initial clip-and-save (or, I guess, here in cyberworld, it’s cutand-paste) Littwin’s Official Unofficial #CO2018 governor’s race rankings. It is brought to you by, well, me, but only with the help of the best political panel in Colorado that money theoretically could buy. (Editor’s note: not that we’re paying any.)

We’ll do this poll every Friday until the primaries on June 28, giving you the inside dope on the ups, the downs, the sideways.

As you don’t need a panel to tell you, this is the most wide-open governor’s race in memory. The dropouts and the never-got-ins — Ken Salazar, Tom Tancredo, Ed Perlmutter, George Brauchler — probably make up a stronger field than those still in the race. But that’s just part of what makes this campaign so fascinating.

John Hickenlooper (now apparently running either for president or to be John Kasich’s best friend) is term-limited, meaning Republicans won’t have to face an incumbent. Donald Trump is president, meaning there is a better than 50 percent chance of a Democratic wave in Colorado and at least a 25 percent chance of a tsunami. You can see why we’re paying attention.

In the big news this week, Cary Kennedy stays hot. She followed her surprisingly big caucus-night win with a close second place to Jared Polis in a just-released Magellan poll. Polis led with 27 percent, Kennedy was at 23, Mike Johnston at 8, Donna Lynne at 5.

As Alan Salazar (one of our star panelists) notes, “Cary has the wind at her back with party activists, but the fight for the 40-plus (percent) undecideds will be the key.” That’s a lot of undecideds, and, for that matter, a lot of time before the ad barrage begins. At this stage, polls are mostly about name recognition, but without the caucus win, Kennedy would have a lot less recognition to work with.

Josh Penry (another star panelist) thinks it’s a three-person race: Polis, Kennedy and Johnston. Penry’s rundown on why each could win: Polis —“because he will buy it.” Kennedy — “because she’s a smart, connected, hard-working candidate with key progressive backing.” Johnston — “because he got the fire, the resources and a little of the RFK thing going.”

Dropouts have been the big story in the race, and Noel Ginsburg is the latest. He should have known that a moderate businessman wasn’t going anywhere in this year’s Dem atmosphere, and now he has learned. Donna Lynne, a moderate basically running for Hick’s third term, might be learning the same thing.

But on the Republican side, to everyone’s surprise, there has been an 11thhour drop-in. Barry Farah, who has desperately wanted to run, finally pulled the trigger (as my friends in the NRA would say). He suggested the Republican field, without Tancredo and without Brauchler, was boring. Maybe so, but let’s just say that in Farah’s announcement, he didn’t do much to change that, which may be why he is still a long shot.

And now, at last, the much-anticipated Week One rankings: DEMOCRATS 1. Jared Polis. When he (or, more to the point, his unlimited funds) pushed Ed Perlmutter out of the race, he looked like the odds-on favorite. The new revisionism is he’s still the favorite, but oddson is off.

2. Cary Kennedy. She’s got the buzz since her caucus stunner. It was a huge win for Kennedy and also for her campaign team. Two questions: Is the buzz translating into money? Will Polis give her another boost by running/losing at the Dem assembly, where Kennedy people say she’s got at least half the delegates lined up.

3. Mike Johnston. Penry says he’s got an RFK-style thing going for him. He’s also got a $1 million Bloomberg-check thing going for him. He’ll have money — yes, a lot of it from out-of-state donors — for a sizable TV push in May/June. Will Kennedy?

4. Donna Lynne. I remember when the big story on Lynne was that Hickenlooper had pushed her into the race. That’s the last big story I remember on Lynne. She needs another one because, as of today, she seems to be the fourth person in a threeperson race.

REPUBLICANS 1. Walker Stapleton. I’ve heard that GOP internals had Tancredo at 32 percent and leading the field when he got out of the race. What this tells you is that Stapleton, though the clear leader, is not exactly running away with anything.

2. Cynthia Coffman. OK, she’s had a slow start, in the way that the Rockies had a slow start. But now she’s betting everything on a big play at the GOP convention. Is that a good bet? Penry thinks so. He says of her convention bid: “The conventional wisdom…that she won’t do well there because she’s moderate is just wrong.”

3. Victor Mitchell. He’s got his own money. Says he’s making a big ad buy. The panel says this is a two-person race so far, and, according to the voting, he’s a distant third.

4. Doug Robinson. Well, he is Romney’s nephew.

Until he gets a better descriptor, he’s not going anywhere. Robinson has tried to shake things up by going after Stapleton for what he called “underhanded tactics and lazy behavior” in petition gathering, which evokes memories of 2016 ballot issues.

More work for ace spokesperson Lynn Bartels. Meanwhile, star panelist Cinamon Watson jokes that if things don’t work out here, Robinson might get a shot for cast of “Veep.”

5. Barry Farah. He’s been talking and talking and talking about running. His wife works for Americans for Prosperity, so the question comes up about Koch money.

Panelist Salazar says Koch money has to land “somewhere” but confesses his pipeline to Koch brothers is “less efficient than XL pipeline.” Basic response from GOP seems to be. Or as one anonymous GOP strategist said of the Kochs, “Nah, they’re too smart for that.”

Our panelists: Alan Salazar: Moved from the governor’s office (where he was Hickenlooper’s longtime political strategist) to the Hillary Clinton campaign (which was a success in Colorado anyway) and is now Michael Hancock’s chief of staff (the mayor needing all the help he can get). Has worked for Mark Udall, for Roy Romer, for Tim Wirth, for Gary Hart — in other words, for most of the Dems who have mattered for the last 30 years.

Josh Penry: Probably the most important unelected Republican in the state just now. Former minority leader of the Senate, Penry was expected by many to be governor some day. Instead, became a principal at EIS, chief strategist for Mike Coffman’s wins over Andrew Romanoff and Morgan Carroll, runs ballot initiatives and, as his EIS bio says, environmental groups have named him and his wife, Kristin Strohm, the “first couple of fracking.” He’s also a longtime buddy of Cory Gardner’s. I’m hoping he can get Gardner to return my phone calls.

Terrance Carroll: Former Speaker of the House, the first (and only) African-American to hold the job. Also an ordained minister and a lawyer, and you’ll have to decide for yourself how the two jobs even out. Just left Denver law firm of Butler Snow for a gig with Denver Public Schools as the district’s chief legal and external affairs office.

Now the second former Colorado House speaker to work for DPS. Mark Ferrandino is chief financial officer. Carroll will join the panel next week.

Cinamon Watson: Has been in and around Colorado politics long enough to have been deputy campaign manager for a Republican candidate who actually won the governor’s race. That was in 2002, in Bill Owens’ second term. Owens, of course, is the only Republican to have been elected governor in Colorado since 1970. Now a principal at consulting firm Blueprint Strategies, Watson has worked in key positions in campaigns for Mike Coffman, Bob Beauprez, Pete Coors and probably several other people I’m forgetting (and a couple she might want to forget, as well).

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March is not a Great Month for Barb Kirkmeyer

Lost Creek Guide

by Bob Grand Last March 6th, 2017 District Court Judge, Todd Taylor, issued a summary judgement, barring and forever enjoining, the defendants and their successors (i.e.:Barb Kirkmeyer and Randy and Katherin Pevler) from interfering with the Wright Family Farms possession, use, maintenance and quiet enjoyment of the Wright parcel and the West Ditch, as described in the law suit. This decision was the culmination of a law suit that started back in 2015 which had two filings, regarding a 10 foot piece of ground bordering property owned by the parties. The facts involved different surveys based on two different pin locations and included a trespassing summons being issued by a Weld County Sheriff deputy for trespassing to the Wrights which was later dismissed in Court. What happened to being able to resolve something between neighbors without having to go to court?

This past March was not much better for Kirkmeyer because at the Republican County Caucus the candidate she nominated to run against Carly Koppes for Clerk and Recorder, Elisa Kunkel, failed to meet the threshold to be placed on the ballot.

Kunkel has filed the necessary paperwork to be a write in candidate for the general election. Additionally, Sandy Elder, made the primary ballot, with a qualifying of 35% of the votes. She will be running against Steve Moreno for a At Large Seat for Weld County Commissioner. In America we have the right to challenge the system. There are times when people may have been in office too long and forget that it is not what they want it is what the people want that counts.

As usual your comments, are always appreciated: Publisher@lostcreekguide.com

April 4, 2018

CDOT Study: 89 Percent Admit to Driving Distracted

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

STATEWIDE — It’s a sight far too common on Colorado roads — drivers with their heads down and hands off the wheel, distracted by their cell phones. In the Colorado Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) 2017 annual mail survey of Colorado drivers, 89 percent of participants reported driving distracted in the past seven days; 40 percent of drivers admitted to reading a message on their phones, 25 percent had sent a message while driving, 53 percent had talked on a handheld cell phone and 54 percent had talked on a hands-free phone. In 2016, distracted driving was a contributing factor in 16 percent of all fatal and injury crashes in Colorado.

To bring awareness and a change to this growing problem, CDOT is joining in a national effort to recognize April as National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, bringing attention to the threat distracted drivers pose.

“Colorado has seen a 24 percent increase in traffic fatalities over the last two years, and the pervasiveness of distracted driving is certainly a contributing factor,” said Darrell Lingk, Director of the CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety. “We hear the same sentiment, that the driver only looked away from the road for a few seconds.

That’s all it takes to ruin a day, or worse, ruin lives.”

In support of National Distracted Driving Awareness month, CDOT will launch its Drop The Distraction high-visibility public awareness and advertising campaign, encouraging Colorado drivers to arm themselves with the tools to kick their distracted driving habit. To help arm people with these resources, CDOT will launch a new cre-

ative campaign later this month focused on ways drivers can use their phones to stop distraction at the source.

“Mobile devices are consistently one of the most dangerous distractions because they divert drivers’ manual, visual and cognitive attention away from the task at hand – driving,” said Sam Cole, CDOT Communications Manager. “There is good news.

Many phone manufacturers and app developers are addressing the issue and implementing apps and devices to eliminate cell phone use while driving. We want drivers to equip themselves and their phones with the resources to prevent distraction.”

In September 2017, Apple released iOS11 with a Do Not Disturb While Driving feature built directly into the phone’s settings, blocking incoming notifications, messages and calls while driving. Once enabled, the phone will either turn on the Do Not Disturb While Driving feature when the phone senses the user is in motion or when the phone connects to a vehicles entertainment system. CDOT’s awareness campaign launching later this month will encourage drivers to turn this setting on and offer recommendations for Android users as well.

Highlighting the human impact of distracted driving, CDOT’s campaign will also feature the story of Vail resident Robye Nothnagel. In February 2017, Nothnagel was a pedestrian struck by an 18-year-old driver who was using her phone behind the wheel.

“Because she was texting, she didn’t see me until I hit her windshield,” Nothnagel recalls. “It was a second and my life changed, drastically.” Even through extensive surgeries and physical therapy, Nothnagel is still recovering from the impacts of the crash and experiences daily pain from nerve damage. You can view her video here: bit.ly/RobyeVideo “Distracted drivers are involved in more than minor fender benders,” said Col. Matthew Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “We're seeing crashes where people were engaged in distracted behaviors while driving at highway speeds. It’s our responsibility to cite reckless and distracted drivers year-round in order to keep Colorado roads safe for all users.”

In 2017, Gov. John Hickenlooper signed into law a bill that dramatically increased a first distracted driving offense from a $50 fine and one point on a driver’s record to a $300 fine and four points.

CDOT’s Drop The Distraction campaign educates motorists about the dangers of distracted driving, through a statewide, high-visibility awareness campaign aimed at decreasing distracted driving. For more information about distracted driving in Colorado, visit distraction.codot.gov.

April 4, 2018

Lost Creek Guide

Wisconsin Grain Silo Avalanche Kills Father and Son

From Fox News The tragic deaths of a Wisconsin dairy farmer and his 14-year-old son last week in grain silo avalanche sent a familiar chill through America's agriculture community, whose members know too well the grim dangers of of life on the family farm.

While entanglements with machines or falls are generally seen as the most frequent cause of injury or death on farms, grain silo avalanches – whether inside the silo itself or from a structural collapse – happen almost on a daily basis, experts say.

“The accident in Wisconsin over the weekend is just another wakeup call that there are inherent dangers in production agriculture,” Keith Bolsen, a former professor of animal sciences and industry at Kansas State University and the founder of the Keith Bolsen Silage Safety Foundation, told Fox News. “Silage and farming can be very dangerous.”

The deaths of 51-year-old Daniel Briel and his teenage son David, on Saturday are an example of the most common type of accident to occur on farms with grain silos. The two, along with Briel’s other son, 15-year-old Caleb, were working to clear off a buildup of silage – the dense, highly moist fodder used to fed animals - on the walls inside of the silo when an “internal collapse” occurred and buried Daniel and David. Caleb, who was also inside, was able to escape.

Bolsen noted that silage comprises 60 to 70 percent moisture, and a cubic yard of the animal feed can weigh up to half a ton or more. During the winter, silage will freeze on the inner walls of a silo and needs to be cleaned off by hand.

“We’ve seen numerous fatalities because of these collapses,” Bolsen said. “And there are even more near misses that occur practically every day.”

A study from Purdue University found that there were 29 grain entrapment cases reported in 2016 – a 21 percent increase from the previous year – with 11 of the cases proving fatal. In 2018, there have already been numerous reports of grain silo collapses, including one in Ohio that dumped 200 semi-truck-size loads of grain over a local road.

The farming industry in recent years has moved away from the towering structures toward storage in bunkers and large piles. Even so, experts say, these more current practices pose risks of large chunks of the silage caving in and burying farmers – and in some cases even large farm equipment – under numerous tons of feed.

“I parked the front of my pickup about 12 feet back from the face of a bunker silo that was about 14 feet high,” cattle rancher Richard Porter told researchers last year.

“While I was standing about 30 yards away talking to an employee, the silage collapsed.

It hit the hood of my truck hard enough that one could easily see the outline of the air cleaner.”

Along with the avalanches, grain silos have been known to collapse and explode – causing massive fireballs as gases locked up in the silos are released. While Bolsen and other experts say these types of events are uncommon and usually occur because of faulty silo construction or metal fatigue, they are impressive to watch.

Indeed, a video of the moment a silo filled with corn toppled over and caused a flaming explosion in 2017 racked up millions of views on Facebook.

Experts say that while silo collapses and other accidents will always be a factor on farms, there are steps that can be taken to mitigate the risks.

Bolsen notes that the No. 1 way to save lives while working inside a silo is to not work alone -- and have somebody watching out for avalanches.

“Follow the buddy rule,” he said. “It has saved countless lives.”

Other rules to follow include avoiding letting the silage build up too high, and rejecting complacency. Bolsen said that while it is too early to pass judgment on last weekend’s tragedy, it is easy to become complacent when you’re working long hours and have been doing a particular job for years.

“When we get tired, we make mistakes,” he said. “But you can do something every day and it only takes a split second for disaster to strike.”

Page 9

Alzheimer's Stigma a Barrier to Prevention, Care: Survey

WEDNESDAY, March 28, 2018 (HealthDay News) -- Stigma surrounding Alzheimer's disease may discourage Americans from learning about their risk and from joining clinical trials for potential new treatments, a small survey reveals.

"We found that concerns about discrimination and overly harsh judgments about the severity of symptoms were most prevalent," lead researcher Shana Stites said in an Alzheimer's Association news release.

"By understanding what the biggest concerns are about the disease, we can help develop programs and policies to reduce the stigma," Stites added.

She is senior research investigator with the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine's Division of Medical Ethics.

Researchers gave a random sample of 317 adults a fictional description of a patient with mild cognitive impairment or dementia due to Alzheimer's. Respondents were told the patient's condition would worsen, improve or stay the same.

Fifty-five percent expected the patient would be discriminated against by employers and be excluded from medical decision-making. Forty-seven percent thought data in the patient's medical records, such as a brain image (46 percent) or genetic test result (45 percent), would lead to limits on his or her health insurance.

Those percentages rose when respondents were told that the patient's condition would worsen over time.

When they were told the patient would improve, 24 percent to 41 percent fewer respondents said they expected that discrimination or exclusion from medical decisions would result.

That suggests advances in therapies to improve the prognosis of Alzheimer's patients could help reduce stigma, according to the study authors.

"The unfortunate stigma associated with Alzheimer's may prevent people from getting the diagnosis they need or the opportunity for early intervention that could improve their quality of life," said Maria Carrillo, the association's chief science officer.

"We need to reduce the stigma to encourage persons with mild or even no symptoms of Alzheimer's disease to enroll in prevention trials to find effective treatments.

These survey findings could also have implications on the national goal of developing an effective therapy by 2025," Carrillo said.

The findings were published online March 27 in Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association.

Page 10

Lost Creek Guide

Weld County Extension Master Gardener:Rainwater Collection in Colorado

April and May are two of the wettest months in Colorado. As you dream of the rain showers that are coming our way, consider the fact that rainwater collection is now legal in our state.

All water in Colorado is highly regulated to assure that downstream users are not negatively affected. The new laws are intentionally written to establish practices that do not significantly disrupt the natural flow of the water. Homeowners can now capture, store, and/or redirect rainfall runoff from residential dwellings and put it to use outdoors. Rain barrel water cannot be used for indoor purposes.

A large amount of rainfall can be collected even in arid states. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension explains: “When 1 inch of rain falls on 1 square foot of catchment (roof) area, it yields about 0.6 gallons of water. Therefore, a 1,000- square-foot roof would yield about 600 gallons of water from only 1 inch of rain.”

A few of the documented advantages of using rainwater to irrigate lawns, plants, or gardens include that it is “soft” water; it contains no chlorine; and best of all, it’s free!

CSU Extension has created a fact sheet that further explains rainwater collection in Colorado. Go to http://extension.colostate.edu/docs/pubs/natres/06707.pdf.

Here are a few key points from the fact sheet: - Most homeowners in Colorado are now allowed to use rain barrels to collect rainwater - A maximum of two rain barrels with a combined storage of 110 gallons or less are allowed at each household - Collected rainwater may be used outdoors to irrigate outdoor lawns, plants, or gardens - Untreated rainwater collected from roofs is not safe to drink Homeowners should download and read the entire factsheet before getting started.

The details about Colorado water law are fascinating, “household” is defined, and the FAQs are very informative.

Rainwater collection systems don’t have to be complex or expensive. A roof system for a residential dwelling can consist simply of gutters, downspouts, and storage containers. Homeowners should pay careful attention to the Colorado requirements for storage containers. Because they can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, all storage containers must be equipped with a sealable lid and should be completely emptied each month. If you are going to be gone for more than a week, CSU suggests you unhook your barrels from the downspouts. Systems should be completely disabled in winter months.

Colorado homeowner associations (HOAs) can’t ban the use of rain barrels but they can impose “reasonable” aesthetic requirements about the appearance and location of the barrels. The HOA may require homeowners to purchase colors that blend into the landscape and/or to be placed on downspouts in the backyard. Best to check with them first before buying and installing barrels. Rain barrels can be purchased online or from local home supply stores and garden centers in a variety of complexity, shapes, sizes, and colors.

The rains are coming. It is time to get started.

Support Your Local Small Businesses!

April 4, 2018

Bipartisan Support for a Strong CO Budget

From Colorado House Democrats Communications (March 29) – The House of Representatives voted 42-22 today to approve the state budget for the 2018-19 fiscal year, which begins July 1.

“Our strong economy has made our job easier, allowing us to make new investments in education, infrastructure and a variety of other priorities that have been denied or underfunded for many years,” said Rep. Millie Hamner, D-Dillon, chairwoman of the legislative Joint Budget Committee.

“Finally we have a budget that Coloradans all around the state can feel good about,” said Rep. Dave Young, D-Greeley, who also sits on the JBC. “Our years of workforce and economic development work in the legislature are paying off in the strength of our Colorado economy, one of the strongest in the nation.”

With the latest economic forecasts showing continued economic strength in Colorado and a resulting boost in state revenues, HB18-1322, the “long bill” approved today, allocates an additional: • $606 million for education, including $266 million to avoid growing the so-called “budget The House members of the Joint Budget Committee stabilization factor,” the state’s arrears to its pub– left to right, Rep. Bob Rankin, R-Carbondale, Rep. lic school districts; $150 Dave Young, D-Greeley, and Rep. Millie Hamner, DDillon, the chairwoman – are applauded on the House million more to reduce the “budget stabilization floor before the passage of HB18-1322, the 2018-19 state budget. It is the final budget for the term-limited factor,” the biggest buydown since what used to Reps. Young and Hamner. be called the “negative factor” was created in 2009; $114 million for our public colleges and universities; $30 million expressly for rural school districts; $36 million for school safety; and $10 million to address the teacher shortage.

• $225 million to help cover the cost of efforts to ensure the long-term stability of PERA, the retirement fund for teachers and other public-sector employees • $137 million for capital development on state-owned buildings and property • $12 million for the Child Care Assistance Program, to reduce waiting lists and expand access to child care for hardworking Colorado families • $11 million for solutions coming out of the legislative working group on our state prison system • $6 million for legislation to address the opioid addiction epidemic in Colorado • $1 million to restore full funding to the Colorado Civil Rights Division Most notable among the 18 “orbital” bills moving along with the “long bill” is HB181340, which appropriates $495 million to fix Colorado’s crumbling, overburdened transportation systems, including dedicated money for county and municipal governments across the state to address their own local issues.

“We have a budget package that’s good for hard-working Coloradans who are tired of being stuck in traffic on the way to work; for students and educators tired of overcrowded classrooms in deteriorating schools; for Coloradans in cities, suburbs and rural areas,” said Speaker Crisanta Duran. “This is truly a budget we can all be proud of.”

The “long bill” package is off to the state Senate.

YOU'RE INVITED: The Young Sons of the American Legion to Host An “Anything But Video Games” Game Night

All young men ages 6 - 17 are invited to come to the American Legion on Friday night, April 20th from 7pm-9pm for FREE PIZZA and a night of GAMES GAMES GAMES and no video screens. Dads/male guardians are encouraged to attend with their boys.

We'll be playing the most popular games from our meetings throughout the past year. "Hop & Pop" - hold a balloon between your feet and hop to the end, then pop the balloon and run back to your team.

"Paper, Rock, Scissors" - Wad up a piece of paper into a 'rock' and play dodge ball, but your team selects a 'scissors' to bat down the incoming paper wads. "Life Size Hungry Hungry Hippo" with carts and laundry baskets. We might do the boys favorite game "Flour Power" if the weather is good! And more...!!

Come enjoy a fun night of just hanging out and doing 'dude' stuff. We'll also be handing out information about our upcoming 1 Year Anniversary celebration coming up in May! See you on April 20th 7-9! Kory Brunson, Darin Bone, Keith Huck. Check out our videos on Facebook - search: "Young Sons of The American Legion.

April 4, 2018

Spring Weather Brings the Reminder to Be Bear Aware

Page 11

Lost Creek Guide

DENVER – Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds outdoor recreationists, city dwellers and rural homeowners that early spring is the time to become Bear Aware. As bears emerge from hibernation, all Coloradans need to be responsible and take steps to minimize human-bear interactions.

It’s important to think ahead and be Bear Aware now when preparing your home, neighborhood and outdoor plans with the change in seasons. Bears are omnivores and primarily eat vegetation such as grasses, forbs, berries, acorns, and seeds, which are usually available as bears emerge from hibernation.

Human-bear interactions tend to increase in the summer months, however, when a late frost or warm, dry weather can lead to localized natural food failures. This can cause black bears from affected areas to become more mobile and persistent in search of human food sources like trash, fruit trees, pet food, bird feeders, livestock and agricultural products. Bears have an extremely keen sense of smell and excellent memories, and once they have learned about a reliable source of food, they will often return.

"It's critical for folks to remember that if a bear finds a meal in or around your home and becomes unafraid of people, it is more likely that a human-bear interaction can occur," said Mark Lamb, Area Wildlife Manager for CPW. "Careless behavior by people, whether leaving your trash out, keeping a dirty campsite or, worst of all, purposely feeding a bear, is most often what leads to these interactions. Unfortunately, our wildlife managers are then tasked to remedy many avoidable problems."

CPW officials say black bears typically do not hunt humans in Colorado; however, because they are large powerful animals, they pose a very serious risk to human health and safety when they become conditioned to finding meals from human sources.

"If you accidentally corner or surprise a bear, remember that one bite or swipe from that bear could lead to a person receiving life-threatening injuries, or worse," said Lamb. "Human health and safety is always our primary concern."

It requires diligence on the part of people to keep bears from becoming human food-dependent at home or while recreating. That effort can begin now; establishing proper Bear Aware behavior in the spring can create good habits that help minimize conflicts throughout the year.

Tips to prevent human/bear conflicts for homeowners include: • Keep garbage in a well-secured enclosure and only put out garbage on the morning of pickup.

• Use a bear-resistant trash can or dumpster. These are available from your trash hauler or on Internet sites.

• Clean all garbage cans regularly to keep them odor free. The scent of ammonia can deter bears.

• Take down all bird feeders -- birds don't need to be fed during the summer. Bird feeders are a major source of bear/human conflicts.

• Don't leave pet food or stock feed outside -- never provide food sources for any wildlife.

• Keep garage doors closed.

• Review CPW’s Bearproofing Your Home Fact Sheet.

• Conduct a home audit to be sure you are not attracting bears to your property.

• Talk to your neighbors and kids about being bear aware.

Tips for outdoor recreationists and travelers: • Read CPW’s Camping and Hiking in Bear Country page to prepare for your trip.

• Pay attention to the surroundings and watch for bear signs, such as tracks or claw or bite marks on trees.

• Make noise while walking or hiking to prevent surprising a bear. Clap, sing or talk loudly. Travel in a group if possible.

• Do not keep food in your vehicle; roll up windows and lock the doors of your vehicles.

• When car-camping, secure all food and coolers in a locked vehicle after you’ve eaten.

• Keep a clean camp, whether you’re in a campground or in the back-country.

• When camping in the back-country, hang food 100 feet or more from your campsite • Cook food well away from your tent; wash dishes thoroughly.

• Don’t bring any food or fragrant items into your tent.

• Review CPW’s Camping and Hiking in Bear Country brochure.

Recreationists, residents and visitors are reminded to contact the nearest Colorado Parks and Wildlife office to file a report of injured or problem wildlife. For more information about Living with Bears, visit: http://cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/LivingwithWildlifeWildBears.aspx.

Main Street Insurance

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Lost Creek Guide

SouthEast Weld Conservation District Annual Meeting

Your local Board of Supervisors invites you to the Conservation District’s 2018 Annual Meeting. Mark your calendars for April 18th at the American Legion Hall in Keenesburg. Social hour begins at 6:30 PM with dinner served at 7:00 PM. Dinner will be provided by the Colorado State University Meat Judging Team. The cost for dinner is $16.00 per plate.

We are excited to announce that our guest speaker is Tracee Bentley. Ms. Bentley is Executive Director of the Colorado Petroleum Council. Prior to joining the Colorado Petroleum Council in March 2015, Bentley served in several key positions including Legislative Director & Senior Advisor on Energy and Agriculture and Deputy Director of the Colorado Energy Office for Governor John Hickenlooper. Prior to joining the Hickenlooper Administration, she was a founding Principal of a bi-partisan lobbying firm that focused on energy, natural resource, and agriculture interests. Bentley also served as the Director of National Affairs for the Colorado Farm Bureau where she spearheaded important issues including: energy, immigration, farm policy, and international trade.

A quick business meeting will follow the presentation with recognition of our Conservationist of the Year, Conservation Partner of the Year and door prizes. We sincerely hope you will join us for this informational presentation and the opportunity to witness what your Board of Supervisors has accomplished over the year. Drop-ins are welcome but reservations are appreciated. You may reserve your seat by contacting Tony Waldron at 303-263-6902 or emailing your reservation to hywal94@gmail. com. Thank you for supporting your local Conservation District and we hope to see you there.

Michael Bates & Associates, LLP

113 Central w PO Box 388, Wiggins, CO 80654

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Accountants & Tax Specialists Michael Bates Ryan Anderson 970-381-8707 & 970-518-7229

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Office: 970-483--6467 FAX: 970-483-6477 email: bmasterjb@aol.com

April 4, 2018

BNSF Railway Near Start of Rail Park in Hudson

By Doug Storum from BizWest HUDSON — The BNSF Railway Co. is getting ready to break ground on the longawaited rail park in Hudson that will serve Northern Colorado and Denver markets.

The BNSF Logistics Center Hudson will be on a 430-acre site in the Hudson Industrial Park and include the railway’s loading and warehouse facilities. It will have approximately 16 shovel-ready parcels of varying size that the railway will lease to companies that want to develop near the center. BNSF will provide the infrastructure for the rail-served properties.

The park is just east of Interstate 76 and is accessed by Weld County Roads 49 and 52.

BNSF (NYSE: BNI), based in Fort Worth, Texas, announced the project in 2011. Over a period of time, BNSF bought parcels of land near its main rail line in Hudson. Some of the parcels were purchased in 2010, according to public records. Over the next several years, BNSF added to its land portfolio for the project, purchasing the final 263 acres in 2016.

BNSF spokeswoman Jessa Lewis said the company plans to invest more than $100 million to develop the park. “We anticipate customer facilities to be operational in early 2019,” she said via email.

BNSF ships freight, such as coal, agricultural products and consumer goods throughout the western two-thirds of the United States.

“We have seen an increase in customer interest in locating facilities in the highly populated Denver growth area, but the number of rail-served sites in the area is limited,” Lewis said.

Upstate Colorado, an economic development organization serving Northern Colorado based in Greeley, will help publicize the center to prospective tenants.

“We’ve been working with BNSF on this project for the past couple of years,” said Rich Werner, president and CEO of Upstate Colorado. “It’s a good time now, with the economy growing here.”

Hudson’s town planner, Tom Fronczyk, has been meeting with BNSF officials about the project, going over details concerning drainage, grading and utilities.

“They have become more interested in the past eight to 10 months on this project,” said Fronczyk, who expects the railway to submit a formal application by mid-April.

“They’re on the clock,” he said. “If they miss that time, the process will be pushed back.”

Fronczyk said because meetings have been ongoing, once formal applications are filed, a construction start could come very soon. He said the first steps would be to lay track from the main line to parcels within the park.

Lewis said BNSF is relocating utilities, adding rail leads and main line connections, building the common loop infrastructure as well as common roads into and out of site.

BNSF has 32,500 miles of track in 28 states and three Canadian provinces. It also has about 1.3 million feet of track in its 25 facilities. In 2009, it was acquired by Warren Buffett’s conglomerate Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Editor’s note: This story was updated May 30 with details t provided by BNSF Railway Co

April 4, 2018

Lost Creek Guide

Aims Community College Community Events in April 2018

GREELEY, CO – April 2, 2018 – Aims Community College will host an array of events designed to cultivate shared experiences and deliver first hand exposure to programs and campuses. The public, media, students and employees are invited to attend these events. For more information and graphics about these events, visit the online Aims event calendar.

WHAT: Truckers Against Trafficking - Freedom Drivers Project Walk-Through Exhibit at Aims Greeley Campus Join the Associated Students of Aims Community College (ASACC), the Aims Staff Association and the Northern Colorado Coalition Against Trafficking and Truckers Against Trafficking to learn about human trafficking and what we can do to help stop it. The 5:30 p.m. presentation at the Cornerstone Conference Center will feature speakers from FBI’s Innocence Lost Task Force, Bikers against Child Abuse, giving an overview of regional and local problems and efforts. Advocates from several NECCAT agencies will have suggestions for family safety, help for survivors and ways to work with existing groups.

WHEN: Thursday, April 5, 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:45-4:15 p.m. at the Greeley Campus, 5401 W 20th Street, Courtyard between College Center and Allied Health Trucks will move to the Cornerstone parking lot from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Presentation at 5:30 p.m. inside.

WHAT: Aim High Community Kite Flight WHEN: Thursday, April 19, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. while supplies last WHERE: All four Aims Campuses Greeley Campus, 5401 W 20th Street, pick up kites in College Center first floor and Cornerstone Conference Center call center Windsor Campus, 1120 Southgate Drive, pick up kites in Public Safety Institute lobby Loveland Campus, 104 E 4th Street, pick up kites at the front desk Fort Lupton Campus, 260 College Avenue, pick up kites at Prairie front desk VISUALS: 500 bright red kites reading “Be Remarkable” will be shared, compliments of Aims Community College to celebrate Spring, Earth Day (April 22) and to encourage community members to make remarkable memories in their community.

Feel free to bring your own kites as well!

WHAT: Family Movie Night at Aims Fort Lupton Campus: The Incredibles The Community is invited to this fun, free, family movie night presented by the Associated Students of Aims Community College (ASACC). Bring your blankets and pillows to get comfy and enjoy the movie. Pizza will be provided.

WHEN: Thursday, April 19, Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and movie starts at 5 p.m.

WHERE: Fort Lupton Campus, 260 College Avenue, Platte Building Rooms 111/113 WHAT: Congressional Art Competition Exhibit and Visit by Congressman Jared Polis Colorado Second District, at Aims Loveland Campus WHEN: Thursday, April 19, reception 6-8 p.m. The art will also be on exhibit and viewable by the public Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Fridays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the weeks of April 9th and April 16th. Media may contact kim. redd@ mail.house.gov or 970-226-1239 for additional information.

WHERE: Loveland Campus, 104 E 4th Street, Loveland WHAT: Public Safety Day at Aims Windsor Campus WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 2018 9 a.m. to noon WHERE: Public Safety Institute, Aims Windsor Campus, 1130 Southgate Drive, Windsor VISUALS: A look inside the Public Safety Institute where guests will experience live demonstrations and tours by the current Fire and Emergency Medical Services program students and displays by the Windsor Police Department and Weld County SWAT Team through the Criminal Justice and Police Academy programs. Demonstrations include response teams to car fires, vehicle extrications that include the

Page 13

Med Evac helicopter, and an introduction to the state of the art facilities including Anatomage table, fire training sand table, and training simulation rooms.

WHAT: Music Department Faculty Recital at Aims Greeley Campus WHEN: Monday, April 23 at 5:30 p.m.

WHERE: Aims Ed Beaty Hall Theater, 5401 W. 20th Street, Greeley VISUALS: FREE and live music by Aims music faculty, including guitar, piano, violin and voice performances.

WHAT: Food Evolution Film Screening at Aims Fort Lupton Campus Aims Community College, in partnership with Colorado Corn, will offer two screenings of Food Evolution at the Fort Lupton Campus. Join Aims for light refreshments during the movie, and stay for a question and answer session following each screening. Seating is limited! RSVP by April 11 at https://goo.gl/forms/aTCLQ7hs- GUg5X5fT2.

WHEN: Thursday, April 26, 2018, 3:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Fort Lupton Campus, 260 College Avenue, Platte Building Rooms 111/113 WHAT: Human2Human Presents: Voices from the Holocaust: Holocaust Survivor presentation by: Dr. Alfred Münz at the Greeley Campus WHEN: Tuesday, April 24 at 3 - 4:30 p.m.

WHERE: Cornerstone Conference Center, 5401 W. 20th Street, Greeley Can’t make it to the event? This program will stream live at www.aims.edu/radio/ webcam WHAT: 4th Annual Aardvark 5k/2k Fun Run / BolderBoulder Qualifier at Greeley Campus WHEN: Saturday, April 28 BolderBoulder qualifying race starts at 8:45 a.m. and Fun Run 5K/2K starts at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Outside Physical Education and Recreation Center (PERC), Aims Greeley Campus, 5401 W 20th Street, Greeley VISUALS: Runners and walkers of all abilities will participate with two competition/ participation levels offered in 2018. Participants will choose competitive racing or non-competitive running, jogging, skipping and walking as they wish. This all weather event will find all ages participating. REGISTRATION INFORMATION: Visit www.aims.edu/funrun or find the Aardvark Fun Run 5K at www.active.com.

Competitive BB qualifier $30, Adult Fun Run $20, Youth Fun Run FREE with participating adult, Aims Student Fun Run $10. Add $10 to all registration fees for late registration on race day.

BINGO Third Saturday of the Month 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm There is also “pickle/pull tabs” available everyday!

Please come join us for some fun and socializing!

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Lost Creek Guide

April 4, 2018

Colorado Parks and Wildlife's Colorado Archery in the School Program Wraps Up Its Most Successful Year Yet

DENVER, Colo. - Colorado Archery in the Schools, an affiliate of the National Archery in the Schools Program®, had its most successful year to date this past year, teaching Olympic-style archery to students in elementary, middle and high school all over Colorado. The program has expanded its reach to include archery programs in 295 schools, and has been able to increase grant funding, training opportunities, and participation in the annual statewide tournament as well.

“Participants in this program are getting trained on a lifelong skill while also having fun and meeting Colorado’s Physical Education Standards in a free extracurricular program,” said Statewide Education Coordinator Tabbi Kinion. “Everybody wins.

Especially the students.”

Grants Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s CAS program introduces kids to archery by offering equipment grant funds, new program grant opportunities to start new programs, as well as maintenance grants for schools currently in the program.

For the 2017-2018 school year, CPW was able to award: • $42,800 in equipment grant funds • 23 maintenance grants to keep school programs running • 17 new program grants to start archery programs in schools Training Last year, 126 teachers were trained as basic archery instructors by CPW staff.

Teachers love the program and the increased engagement they see from students.

“CASP has been a wonderful addition to my curriculum and the students love having the opportunity to shoot a real compound bow in class,” said Hector Vega, a physical education teacher at Aragon Elementary in Colorado Springs. “I select 4th and 5th graders to be on my archery team and we have intense practice sessions leading up to the annual virtual tournament.”

Support Your Local Small Businesses!

Word about the program has been spreading through the school systems. The number of teachers trained in Colorado had a 106 percent increase this year!

If CPW’s 295 schools are teaching about 120 kids archery each year (this average is based on reporting by teachers), then at least 35,000 kids are shooting archery in school thanks to CPW staff.

State Tournament Participants As a result of these efforts, archer participation in the annual statewide virtual tournament is growing each year. The annual Colorado NASP Virtual State Tournament gives every Colorado student who participates in the archery in the schools program a chance to compete with archers across the state right in their home gym.

The tournament started in 2015 with 6 schools and 77 archers has grown to include 17 schools and 369 archers.

The 2018 online tournament was held Jan. 16 - Feb. 9 in schools across Colorado.

Students who qualified during the Colorado state tournament are invited to participate in the NASP Western Nationals Tournament in Sandy, Utah on April 13 and 14.

First place teams in each division (elementary, middle, and high school), as well as the top 10 male and top 10 female individual archers from each division, qualify for Nationals.

Program information as well as the tournament rules and guidelines can be found on the Colorado Archery in the Schools site.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is proud to support students learning life-long archery skills as part of physical education classes.

Water Leaders Approve Funding for South Platte Basin Projects

Water planning in Colorado is guided by the grassroots efforts of Basin Roundtables. Roundtables are groups that were formed as a result of legislation that are comprised of members who have broad interests in helping meet the projected water supply shortage. To make concrete progress toward addressing local water issues, the South Platte Basin Roundtable, which includes Fort Collins, Boulder, Greeley and the entire northeast Colorado, recently recommended approval for funding for three water projects. This funding (which the Colorado Water Conservation Board has subsequently approved) directly benefits a variety of water needs, across several categories.

The first project, called the St. Vrain and Left Hand Stream Management Plan involves a multidisciplinary approach to improve flows across the entire St. Vrain watershed. The Roundtable approved $50,000 for this project which represents only 17% of the total projected project cost. This project has great leveraging from other funding contributions.

The second project, the Lost Creek Designated Basin Instrumentation Project was approved for funding in the amount of $25,000 by the Roundtable. Groundwater data will be acquired to enhance understanding of groundwater quantity, accessibility, and movement in the shallow alluvial aquifer identified as the best candidate for underground storage along the Front Range in the Colorado Water Plan. Lost Creek Basin managers are proactively establishing the scientific prerequisites for development of this important resource in the South Platte Basin system.

The third project, referred to as the Bureau of Reclamation – Narrows Tracts Shallow Water Wetland Enhancements and Recharge Development is a multi-purpose, public lands project with agricultural, environmental and recreational benefits. The Roundtable approved funding for $50,000 when the total project cost is estimated at more than $1,000,000.

The Roundtable recommends approval of funding for projects with significant contributions from other sources, to emphasize the applicants’ need to leverage limited state funds. These projects represent concrete examples of how our communities are coming together to solve our water challenges. Members of the public are encouraged to attend our monthly Roundtable meetings. Information can be found at: southplattebasin.com.

April 4, 2018

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Lost Creek Guide

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ANNOUNCEMENT A Golden Anniversary Party Please join us in celebrating a special moment in our parents and grandparents lives, Herman and Jo Utecht’s 50th Wedding Anniversary.

When: Saturday, April 28, 2018 - 4 pm Where: Keenesburg Fairgrounds 7758 CR 59, Keenesburg, CO 80643

SERVICES

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McCarthy Trucking Recycled asphalt, concrete Great for driveways & parking areas. Also sand & gravel.

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Page 16

Lost Creek Guide

April 4, 2018

More Coloradans Died Last Year From Drug Overdoses Than Any Year in the State’s History. That Shows How the Opioid Epidemic is Changing.

Increases Seen in Deaths from Other Drugs, Including Methamphetamine and Cocaine

By JOHN INGOLD | jingold@denverpost.com | The Denver Post Colorado drug deaths almost certainly were the worst in the state’s history last year, as the opioid epidemic morphed into a broader overdose crisis.

Deaths from methamphetamine exploded. What had been seen as a hopeful downturn in deaths from opioid painkillers reversed. Deaths from heroin and cocaine remained well above where they were just two years ago.

All together, drug overdoses probably killed more people last year than car crashes, according to preliminary numbers. And those numbers are more likely to increase than decrease as the state collects the remaining figures and finalizes the data in the coming weeks.

“Yes, it’s getting worse, and it continues to grow,” said Rob Valuck, the director of the Colorado Consortium for Prescription Drug Prevention. “It’s a long problem. I’m of the mind that it’s going to be anywhere from five to 10 years until we see this thing turn.”

The reason for that: Even as the state moves aggressively to crack down on the proliferation of opioids, the overdose epidemic is changing in ways that are harder for policy-makers to target, according to the latest data and a new report from the Colorado Health Institute.

The preliminary figures show that 959 people died in Colorado last year from drug poisoning, a figure that includes both intentional and unintentional overdoses. In 2016, 912 people died. In 2000, for comparison, drug poisonings claimed fewer than 400 lives.

The preliminary age-adjusted rate of deaths from drug overdoses, which accounts for population growth, was 16.7 deaths for every 100,000 people in 2017 — its highest in at least two decades. The largest number of deaths in 2017 occurred in the Denver metro area and in El Paso County, according to the preliminary figures. Areas of southern Colorado had some of the highest rates of drug overdose deaths, though.

Opioid painkillers continue to lead the way. In 2017, the drugs — whether obtained legally with a prescription or illegally — claimed a documented 357 lives, a record for Colorado, according to the preliminary figures. Two years of declining death numbers turned out not to be a trend but “just a blip,” Valuck said.

Their real toll was also likely higher because the state lists dozens of other deaths as being from “unspecified” drugs. A study published last year, for instance, estimated that Colorado’s death rate from opioid painkillers would have been almost 25 percent

higher in 2014 had the drugs involved in those deaths been identified.

But the state’s overdose epidemic is no longer confined to opioid painkillers, according to the new Colorado Health Institute report.

The report documents a rise in cocaine deaths in recent years — from 60 in 2015 to 101 in 2016, falling only slightly to a preliminary 93 last year. Fatal methamphetamine overdoses increased dramatically — 139 in 2015, 196 in 2016 and a preliminary 280 in 2017. And heroin deaths have also risen sharply — 160 in 2015, 228 in 2016 and a preliminary 213 in 2017.

Jaclyn Zubrzycki, the report’s lead author, said those increases could partly be a result of the opioid epidemic. As hospitals and doctors’ offices crack down on their prescribing, those addicted to opioids may be forced into looking for drugs on the black market — and taking whatever they can find there.

“I think it’s tied to the opioid epidemic and the prescription epidemic, but it’s also an independent growth,” Zubrzycki said.

Colorado’s trends are not unique nationally. Preliminary numbers released by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that drug overdose death rates increased in 36 states and the District of Columbia during the 12-month period ended July 1.

And, for Valuck, this all just shows how much work Colorado and other states have to do in fighting the epidemic.

An opioid death isn’t instantaneous, he said. It’s the conclusion of an often yearslong addiction that begins with a doctor’s prescription. So, the first step in stopping overdoses, he said, is to reduce the flow of opioids out of pharmacies — both to prevent people from becoming addicted to their own medicine and to limit the number of leftover opioids floating around that commonly fuel additional cases of addiction.

Colorado hospitals have made progress in reducing opioid prescribing, Valuck said.

But their prescription levels are still 87 percent of what they used to be.

“The faucet is being shut off at a slower rate than we would like,” he said.

But even if new cases of addiction can be stopped, that still leaves thousands of people in need of treatment who are vulnerable to overdosing on any of an expanding list of drugs. But, Valuck said, treatment services lag in rural areas, while urban areas also have challenges reaching everyone who needs help.

“If you look at the numbers,” he said, “everywhere in Colorado has a problem.”

Keenesburg Easter Egg Hunt

Election Results 2018

Keenesburg: Mayor: Ken Gfeller – 110

Bruce Sparrow – 68 Trustee: Wilbur Wafel 138 Tim Smith 132 Carl Frederickson – 117 Juanda Hesse 115 Mark Gray 110 Robert Zebroski 109 John Howell 95 Kersey: Mayor: Chris Smith 97 Case DeVries 81 Gary Laggrimanta 55 Trustee: Stan Sameshima - 197 Mike Theorino 125 Publish by Title Only: Yes: 117 No: 111 Wiggins: Mayor: Mac Leon 102 Trustee: Brian Becker 110 Jeffery Palmer 95 Bruce Miller 87 Chris Sandoval 84 Patricia Musgrave 68 Mary Ellen Musgrave- 64 JoAnne Rohn-Cook - 59 Anna Brooks 49